She was born in Harrisburg on July 19, 1927, to Eugene and Stella (Potter) Shea. Pauline married Joe Small on Dec. 21, 1955, at Mt. Moriah United Methodist Church; he preceded her in death on Aug. 26, 1999. She was an active member of Mt. Moriah United Methodist Church. Pauline received her bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University and taught school before devoting her life to being a loving farm wife and mother.